The Legend of Heroes -Trails in the Sky SC-: Silver Will, Golden Wings – Hiroko Yamawaki
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Album Title: The Legend of Heroes -Trails in the Sky SC-: Silver Will, Golden Wings – Hiroko Yamawaki |
| Record Label: Nihon Falcom |
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| Catalog No.: N/A |
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| Release Date: March 9, 2006 |
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| Purchase: Buy Used Copy |
Overview
The soundtrack to The Legend of Heroes VI: Trails in the Sky Second Chapter was more mainstream-oriented than its predecessor. This time vocal themes took a central role and the Falcom Sound Team J.D.K. offered three pop songs. A bonus with the game was a five track single containing the vocal and karaoke versions of the themes. The single is bound to be treasured by those who enjoy Falcom vocal themes, but doesn’t offer anything that isn’t featured on the soundtrack…
Body
The Second Chapter of the Trails in the Sky trilogy opened with an incredibly uplifting theme song, “Silver Will, Golden Wings”, rather than an orchestral overture. It’s actually an inspired vocal arrangement of the First Chapter classic “Silver Will” complete with pumping techno beats and gliding string overlays. The song doesn’t really offer much in terms of the game’s storyline, but it’s still a fun accompaniment to the opening sequence and introduces some mainstream appeal too.
An extended version of the opening theme song was created for the ending theme of the game. It follows in a similar fashion, combining Hiroko Yamawaki’s exotic vocals with upbeat electro backing. However, listeners are treated to several new features, such as the oriental violin solo from the 3:08 mark and the use of more charismatic backing singers. It doesn’t offer too much new, but the original is so good that its reprise is welcome. There is also an karaoke version of the extended version.
In addition, the ending of the game features the pop ballad “I Swear…” This song is written much in the tradition of other ending themes with slowly building vocal melodies and soft piano backing. Kanako Kotera’s vocals didn’t capture me like the other singer, but she is still a poignant performer. It’s also enjoyable how the song blooms from its gentle origins to its much more colourful chorus section. It’s a very standard song, but still well-produced. Of course, listeners can also check out its karaoke version towards the end of the single.
Summary
To wrap up, the vocal themes for The Legend of Heroes VI: Trails in the Sky Second Chapter are a central aspect of the game and listening experience. “Silver Will, Golden Wings” is an especially inspired rendition of an instrumental favourite from the precursor soundtrack, while “I Swear…” is an above average ballad. Those who bought the limited edition version of the game should enjoy this single, but it’s probably even better to enjoy them within the context of the entire soundtrack.
Do you agree with the review and score? Let us know in the comments below!
3.5
Posted on August 1, 2012 by Chris Greening. Last modified on August 1, 2012.
About the Author
Chris Greening I've contributed to websites related to game audio since 2002. In this time, I've reviewed over a thousand albums and interviewed hundreds of musicians across the world. As the founder and webmaster of VGMO -Video Game Music Online-, I hope to create a cutting-edge, journalistic resource for all those soundtrack enthusiasts out there. In the process, I would love to further cultivate my passion for music, writing, and generally building things. Please enjoy the site and don't hesitate to say hello!
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